2 Kings 11:4

Then in the seventh year, Jehoiada sent for the commanders of hundreds, the Carites, and the guards, and had them brought into the house of the LORD. There he made a covenant with them and put them under oath. He showed them the king's son

Study Bible

Then in the seventh year
The phrase "in the seventh year" marks a significant turning point in the narrative. The number seven in Hebrew culture often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection. This timing suggests that God's providential plan was reaching its fulfillment. Historically, this was the seventh year of Athaliah's reign, a period marked by idolatry and apostasy. The seventh year signifies a divinely appointed time for restoration and renewal.

Jehoiada sent for the commanders of hundreds
Jehoiada, the high priest, emerges as a pivotal figure in this narrative. His name means "Yahweh knows," indicating his role as a divinely appointed leader. The "commanders of hundreds" were military leaders, suggesting that Jehoiada was orchestrating a strategic and well-planned coup. This action underscores the importance of godly leadership and the necessity of aligning military power with divine purposes.

the Carites, and the guards
The Carites were likely a group of mercenaries or a special guard unit, possibly of foreign origin, who served as royal bodyguards. Their inclusion in Jehoiada's plan highlights the need for loyalty and trustworthiness in those who protect the king. The "guards" were likely temple guards, emphasizing the sacred nature of this mission. This collaboration between different groups illustrates the unity required to accomplish God's purposes.

He had them come to him in the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple, the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence. By gathering the leaders in the temple, Jehoiada sanctifies the political action with a spiritual foundation. This setting underscores the belief that true leadership and governance must be rooted in divine authority and guidance.

where he made a covenant with them
The act of making a covenant is deeply significant in biblical terms. A covenant is a solemn agreement, often involving commitments before God. Jehoiada's covenant with the commanders signifies a binding agreement to restore the Davidic line and uphold God's law. This reflects the biblical theme that God's covenants are central to His relationship with His people.

and put them under oath
An oath in biblical times was a serious commitment, invoking God's name as a witness to the truth of one's words. By putting the commanders under oath, Jehoiada ensures their loyalty and commitment to the divine plan. This act highlights the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership.

He showed them the king’s son
The revelation of the king's son, Joash, is the climax of Jehoiada's plan. Joash, hidden for six years, represents the hope of restoring the Davidic dynasty. This moment is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises, as the Davidic line was prophesied to endure. The unveiling of Joash symbolizes the triumph of God's purposes over human schemes and the restoration of rightful leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoiada
A high priest who played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by protecting Joash and orchestrating his coronation.

2. Commanders of Hundreds
Military leaders who were entrusted with the task of protecting the young king and ensuring the success of Jehoiada's plan.

3. Carites
A group of mercenaries or royal guards, possibly of foreign origin, who were loyal to Jehoiada and played a role in the protection of Joash.

4. Guards
The temple guards who were responsible for the security of the temple and the safety of the king.

5. House of the LORD
The temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and the setting for the covenant and the revelation of the king's son.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoiada's leadership was instrumental in preserving the Davidic line and ensuring the continuation of God's promises. Godly leaders can have a profound impact on the course of history and the lives of those they lead.

The Role of Covenants
The covenant made by Jehoiada with the commanders and guards underscores the importance of commitment and faithfulness in fulfilling God's purposes. Covenants are sacred and should be honored with integrity.

Courage in the Face of Danger
Jehoiada's actions required great courage and faith. Believers are called to stand firm in their convictions, even when faced with opposition or danger.

The Preservation of God's Promises
Despite the threats to the Davidic line, God's promises were preserved through the faithfulness of His servants. This reminds us that God's plans cannot be thwarted by human schemes.

The Significance of the Temple
The temple served as a place of refuge and revelation. It is a reminder of the importance of worship and seeking God's presence in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoiada's leadership reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the covenant made by Jehoiada with the commanders and guards mirror the covenants God makes with His people?

3. What can we learn from Jehoiada's courage and faith in the face of danger, and how can we apply this to challenges we face today?

4. How does the preservation of the Davidic line through Joash demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our own faith journey?

5. What role does the temple play in this account, and how can we prioritize worship and seeking God's presence in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides a parallel account of Jehoiada's actions and the events surrounding Joash's coronation, offering additional details and insights.

Exodus 24:7-8
The making of a covenant, as seen in Jehoiada's actions, echoes the covenant made between God and Israel, highlighting the importance of oaths and divine promises.

Psalm 132:11-12
This passage speaks of God's promise to David regarding his descendants, which is relevant to the preservation of the Davidic line through Joash.

Hebrews 6:16-18
Discusses the seriousness of oaths and covenants, which can be related to the oath Jehoiada made with the commanders and guards.